cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Demographic Description of the Presentation and Treatment of Lower Extremity Skin and Soft Tissue Infections Secondary to Skin Popping in Intravenous Drug Abusers

Skin popping refers to the act of subcutaneous injection of intravenous drugs, a practice that often results in the development of cellulitis and the formation of soft tissue abscesses. Although the foot and ankle represent common injection sites, few data have described the presentation and natural history of this pathologic entity. The objective of the present study was to retrospectively assess the descriptive demographic data of a patient cohort admitted for lower extremity skin and soft tissue infection caused by intravenous drug abuse. Fifty skin popping lesions in 49 patients were identified during a 733-day data collection period (August 1, 2010 to August 31, 2012) that had been treated by the in-patient podiatric surgical service for lower extremity infection caused by intravenous drug abuse at an urban, level-one trauma center. With respect to patient race, our hospital has a typical in-patient census of 55% black patients and 25% white patients. The present patient cohort consisted of 12% black patients and 65% white patients. The mean length of stay was 5.71 ± 3.56 days, and 42 patients (85.71%) underwent some form of surgical debridement, with 31 (63.27%) having undergone a formal procedure in the operating room. Six patients (12.24%) left the hospital against medical advice or refused intervention at some definitive point of care, and 36 (73.47%) did not return for scheduled outpatient follow-up visits. Three cases (6%) resulted in minor amputation. The microbiologic culture data and common antibiotic prescriptions used in the diagnosis and treatment, respectively, of these patients have been summarized. We hope these original descriptive data can be used by other physicians treating patients at similar urban practices to improve the care of these sometimes difficult-to-treat patients and better serve this population as a whole.
Analysis of transcriptome changes induced by Ptr ToxA in wheat provides insights into the mechanisms of plant susceptibility

To obtain greater insight into the molecular events underlying plant disease susceptibility, we studied tran- scriptome changes induced by a host-selective toxin of Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, Ptr ToxA (ToxA), on its host plant, wheat. Transcriptional profiling of ToxA-treated leaves of a ToxA-sensitive wheat cultivar was performed using the GeneChipWheat Genome Array. An improved and up-to-date annotation of the wheat microarray was generated and a new tool for array data analysis (BRAT) was developed, and both are available for public use via a web-based in- terface. Our data indicate that massive transcriptional reprogramming occurs due to ToxA treatment, including cellular responses typically associated with defense. In addition, this study supports previous results indicating that ToxA-induced cell death is triggered by impairment of the photosynthetic machinery and accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Based on results of this study, we propose that ToxA acts as both an elicitor and a virulence factor.
Effect of Gestational Age and Retinol (Vitamin A) Deficiency on Fetal Rat Lung Nuclear Retinoic Acid Receptors

Effect of Gestational Age and Retinol (Vitamin A) Deficiency on Fetal Rat Lung Nuclear Retinoic Acid Receptors
High performance computing in biology: multimillion atom simulations of nanoscale systems

Computational methods have been used in biology for sequence analysis (bioinformatics), all-atom simulation (molecular dynamics and quantum calculations), and more recently for modeling biological networks (systems biology). Of these three techniques, all-atom simulation is currently the most computationally demanding, in terms of compute load, communication speed, and memory load. Breakthroughs in electrostatic force calculation and dynamic load balancing have enabled molecular dynamics simulations of large biomolecular complexes. Here, we report simulation results for the ribosome, using approximately 2.64 million atoms, the largest all-atom biomolecular simulation published to date. Several other nano-scale systems with different numbers of atoms were studied to measure the performance of the NAMD molecular dynamics simulation program on the Los Alamos National Laboratory Q Machine. We demonstrate that multimillion atom systems represent a 'sweet spot' for the NAMD code on large supercomputers. NAMD displays an unprecedented 85% parallel scaling efficiency for the ribosome system on 1024 CPUs. We also review recent targeted molecular dynamics simulations of the ribosome that prove useful for studying conformational changes of this large biomolecular complex in atomic detail.
Analysis of vacuum fatigue crack growth results and its implications

Conventionally, the reduction of ΔK t h with load ratio R has been interpreted in terms of crack closure arising from plasticity, oxide or crack surface roughness. Since, plane-strain conditions exist near-threshold, plasticity-induced closure is absent. Therefore, to account for R-ratio effects near-threshold, the oxide and roughness closure mechanisms have been proposed. Further analysis has shown that these other two closure effects also are small, when the results taken in vacuum were included. The present analysis shows that there is a unique relation of the oxide thickness with a threshold K m a x , rather than with a threshold ΔK. This threshold K m a x (K* m a x , t h ) depends on environment. When the applied K m a x K* m a x , t h . Thus, the oxide thickness-K m a x relation seems to have a hearing on the criterion for crack growth in the presence of the environment. Oxide formation passivates the crack surfaces and retards the environmental damage ahead of the crack-tip. Examples from CrMo and NiCrMo steels support this viewpoint and suggest that there is a pressing need for quantifying the crack-tip environmental effects and fatigue thresholds.
Interface characteristics of iso-structural thin film and substrate pairs

Abstract Cubic-CeO 2 and α-Fe 2 O 3 thin films have been epitaxially grown on yttria-stabilized ZrO 2 and α-Al 2 O 3 substrates, respectively, by oxygen plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The interface structural features between the films and the substrates were characterized by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). RBS channeling spectra for both CeO 2 /ZrO 2 and Fe 2 O 3 /Al 2 O 3 show interface disorder-related scattering peaks. It is believed that the observed interface disorder-related scattering peaks in the RBS spectra are due to interface misfit dislocations. Cross sectional HRTEM reveals that interfaces of both systems are similarly characterized by coherent regions that are separated by misfit dislocations periodically distributed along the interface. The experimentally observed dislocation spacings are approximately consistent with those calculated from the lattice mismatch, implying that the lattice mismatch is accommodated mainly by interface misfit dislocations.
Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking-Derived Segmental Peak Systolic Longitudinal Strain Identifies Regional Myocardial Involvement in Patients with Myocarditis and Normal Global Left Ventricular Systolic Function

The presence of myocardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in concert with electrocardiography and elevated biomarkers helps support the diagnosis of acute myocarditis. Two-dimensional echocardiography is limited to global and qualitative regional function assessment and may not contribute to the diagnosis, especially in the presence of normal LV systolic function. Two-dimensional speckle-tracking (2D-STE)-derived segmental peak systolic (pkS) longitudinal strain (LS) may identify segmental myocardial involvement in myocarditis. We sought to identify an association between segmental pkS, LGE, and troponin levels in patients with myocarditis. Retrospective analysis of myocardial segmental function by 2D-STE segmental strain was compared to the presence of LGE and admission peak troponin levels in patients with acute myocarditis and preserved global LV systolic function. American Heart Association 17-segment model was used for comparison between imaging modalities. Global function was assessed by m-mode-derived shortening fraction (SF). Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were utilized. Forty-four CMRs performed to evaluate for myocarditis were identified. Of the 44, 10 patients, median age 17.5 years (14-18.5 years) and median SF 35 % (28-44 %), had paired CMR and 2D-STE data for analysis, and 161/170 segments could be analyzed by both methods for comparison. PkS LS was decreased in 51 % of segments that were positive for LGE with average pkS of -14.7 %. Segmental pkS LS abnormalities were present in all but one patient who had abnormal pkS circumferential strain. Global pkS LS was decreased in patients with myocarditis. There is a moderate correlation between decreased pkS LS and the presence of LGE by CMR, 2D-STE for myocardial involvement in acute myocarditis can serve as an useful noninvasive adjunct to the existing tests used for the diagnosis of acute myocarditis and might have a role in prognostication.
Assessing the economic costs of high school noncompletion

Disparities in educational attainment exist across states. There are costs, both to the individual and society, associated with low levels of educational attainment. This research estimates the costs of high school noncompletion in terms of income loss for each state. The results suggest that: 1) there are substantial economic costs associated with high school noncompletion ($727 billion in lost income nationally); 2) costs vary widely across states; and 3) in general, states with relatively low levels of per capita expenditures on education incur the greatest losses in income from high school noncompletion.
Surgery For Bulbous Urethral Strictures In Boys - What Is The Optimal Surgical Strategy?

PURPOSE Optimal management of bulbous urethral strictures in children is poorly defined. We compared our long-term experience with direct vision internal urethrotomy (DVIU) and open repair with the objective of defining optimal surgical strategy. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sixty-three patients who had undergone DVIU or open repair were reviewed. Forty-six (73%) were treated with one or more DVIU's. Seventeen (27%) had urethroplasty, 13 end to end and 4 patch graft or tube. Eight of the 17 required urethroplasty only, whereas 9 had a combined approach of open and DVIU. Mean patient age was 14.1 years (range: 5 months to 21 years). Follow-up assessment entailed either VCUG, RUG, cystoscopy or flow rate or a combination. Mean follow-up was 30 months for those undergoing DVIU and 16 months for those having open urethroplasty. RESULTS When DVIU was the initial approach, one procedure was successful in 53% (28/53). Multiple DVIU's increased the success rate to 59% (43/73). Patients undergoing an initial DVIU required a mean of 1.6 procedures (84/53). When open repair was the initial approach one procedure was successful in 80% (8/10). This group required a mean of 1.2 procedures (12/10). A combined (DVIU/open) approach was successful in 78% (7/9). CONCLUSIONS Open reconstruction is more successful than DVIU as an initial approach to bulbous urethral strictures. Initial DVIU is successful in half. Repeat DVIU's add little to success. Success with a combined approach (DVIU/open) approximates that of initial open reconstruction. We advocate only one initial attempt DVIU followed by open urethroplasty, if necessary.
A model for tetragonal lysozyme crystal nucleation and growth

Macromolecular crystallization is a complex process, involving a system that typically has 5 or more components (macromolecule, water, buffer + counter ion, and precipitant). Whereas small molecules have only a few contacts in the crystal lattice, macromolecules generally have 10's or even 100's of contacts between molecules. These can range from hydrogen bonds (direct or water-mediated), through van der Waals, hydrophobic, salt bridges, and ion-mediated contacts. The latter interactions are stronger and require some specificity in the molecular alignment, while the others are weaker, more prevalent, and more promiscuous, i.e., can be readily broken and reformed between other sites. Formation of a consistent, ordered, 3D structure may be difficult or impossible in the absence of any or presence of too many strong interactions. Further complicating the process is the inherent structural asymmetry of monomeric (single chain) macromolecules. The process of crystal nucleation and growth involves the ordered assembly of growth units into a defined 3D lattice. We suggest that for many macromolecules, particularly those that are monomeric, this involves a preliminary solution-phase assembly process into a growth unit having some symmetry prior to addition to the lattice, recapitulating the initial stages of the nucleation process. If this model is correct then fluids and crystal growth models assuming a strictly monodisperse nutrient solution need to be revised. This model has been developed from experimental evidence based upon face growth rate, AFM, and fluorescence energy transfer data for the nucleation and growth of tetragonal lysozyme crystals.
Comparative phylogeography of codistributed aquatic insects in western North America: insights into dispersal and regional patterns of genetic structure

SUMMARY 1. Phylogeographic studies provide insights about complex systems at different evolutionary scales.In addition to providing evidence about ecological processes at the organismal level, a synthesis ofstudies across taxa can illuminate broad phylogeographic patterns at the landscape scale.2. We compared the phylogeographic patterns of two codistributed species of aquatic insects,Pteronarcella badia (Plecoptera: Pteronarcyidae) and Drunella grandis (Ephemeroptera: Ephemerellidae),across much of their range in western North America.3. We conducted population genetic analyses of P. badia and D. grandis individuals that co-occurredin 22 western North American localities. Patterns of genetic structure and gene ﬂow were comparedto test for differential dispersal ability and to determine whether broad-scale phylogeographic trendsare consistent with patterns seen in terrestrial taxa across a similar geographic area. We also evalu-ated whether patterns observed in these species ﬁt previously proposed models of genetic structurein aquatic organisms.4. Pteronarcella badia showed greater genetic structure and lower rates of dispersal than D. grandis.Both taxa showed several shared geographic regions of genetic isolation, including the BitterrootValley in Montana, the Paciﬁc Northwest, the southern Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau.These broad-scale phylogeographic patterns are largely consistent with trends observed in severalterrestrial taxa across the sample area. D. grandis showed patterns of gene ﬂow consistent with anisolation-by-distance model of genetic structure. Patterns observed in P. badia reﬂect elements ofmultiple models and may highlight the value of the dendritic network approach to understandinggenetic patterns of aquatic taxa at broad geographic scales.Keywords: dispersal, glacial refugia, mayﬂy, phylogeography, stoneﬂy
Survival after lumpectomy and mastectomy for early stage invasive breast cancer: the effect of age and hormone receptor status

BACKGROUND: Randomized clinical trials (RCT) have demonstrated equivalent survival for breast-conserving therapy with radiation (BCT) and mastectomy for early-stage breast cancer. A large, population-based series of women who underwent BCT or mastectomy was studied to observe whether outcomes of RCT were achieved in the general population, and whether survival differed by surgery type when stratified by age and hormone receptor (HR) status. METHODS: Information was obtained regarding all women diagnosed in the state of California with stage I or II breast cancer between 1990 and 2004, who were treated with either BCT or mastectomy and followed for vital status through December 2009. Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to compare overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) between BCT and mastectomy groups. Analyses were stratified by age group (< 50 years and ≥ 50 years) and tumor HR status. RESULTS: A total of 112,154 women fulfilled eligibility criteria. Women undergoing BCT had improved OS and DSS compared with women with mastectomy (adjusted hazard ratio for OS entire cohort = 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.80-0.83). The DSS benefit with BCT compared with mastectomy was greater among women age ≥ 50 with HR-positive disease (hazard ratio = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.82-0.91) than among women age < 50 with HR-negative disease (hazard ratio = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.79-0.98); however, this trend was seen among all subgroups analyzed. CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with early stage breast cancer, BCT was associated with improved DSS. These data provide confidence that BCT remains an effective alternative to mastectomy for early stage disease regardless of age or HR status. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Organizational adoption of MIS planning as an innovation

Abstract Management Information Systems (MIS) planning has been considered to be central to the effective utilization of the information resources of an organization. Considerable research has been undertaken in examining organizational innovation. Much of this research has involved product or service rather than process. MIS planning can be viewed as an adoption of process innovation. In this paper we have attempted to study such a process using information theory. The data for this study were collected from 178 organizations using a questionnaire approach. It has been shown that the behavior of adoption of MIS planning is similar to the adoption to other innovations. Further it has been found that the achievement of planned goals has no significant relationship with MIS strategic planning during this adoption process. Finally the adoption process has been related to Nolan's six stages of data processing growth.
Implications of atomic-level manipulation on the Si(100) surface: From enhanced CMOS reliability to molecular nanoelectronics

Abstract The ultra-high vacuum scanning tunneling microscope (UHVSTM) has been used to induce desorption of H from the Si(100)–2X1:H surface with atomic-level precision. The study of the desorption mechanism led to the discovery of a substantial isotope effect between H and D, which has recently been employed to minimize hot electron degradation at the Si/ SiO 2 interface in conventional complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) circuits. This paper will reveal secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) data that show a direct correlation between D incorporation at this interface and transistor lifetime. D incorporation can be enhanced via high-pressure processing, which has led to lifetime improvements in excess of 700 × for Samsung`s latest 0.18 μ m, 1.5 V CMOS technology. In addition to enhancing current integrated circuits, UHVSTM-induced hydrogen desorption has aided the development of nanoelectronics on the molecular-size scale. Feedback-controlled lithography (FCL) has refined the desorption process to the point where templates of individual dangling bonds can be generated in arbitrary geometries. The chemical contrast between dangling bonds and H-passivated Si is then utilized to isolate individual copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and C 60 molecules on the Si(100) surface. Following isolation, STM spectroscopy has characterized the mechanical and electrical properties of these molecules with intra -molecular precision.
Wall Pressure and Shear Stress Variations in a 90-Deg Bifurcation During Pulsatile Laminar Flow

They are evaluated using the results of the numerical solution of the Navier-Strokes equation. The extent of the adverse pressure gradient on the bottom wall of the main duct and the upstream wall of the branch closely correlate to the behavior of the two dynamic recirculation zones which are formed on these two walls. Multiple zones of high and low shear stresses at various sites in the bifurcation are observed. The extent of the maximum and minimum shear stress is identified. Next-to-the-wall laser Doppler anemometer measurements are used to estimate the shear stress distribution on the walls.
Ontogeny of tolerogen-responsive lymphocytes following neonatal inoculation of class II disparate semiallogeneic cells.

Abstract Spleens of adult mice of the A strain background that were rendered tolerant as neonates of class II alloantigens only (ATH tolerant of A.TL, A.TL tolerant of A.TH) contain large numbers of tolerogen-responsive T cells, many of which secrete IL-4, but not IL-2. Since these spleens also contain suppressor cells that can adoptively transfer skin allograft acceptance in vivo and can prevent generation of class II-specific cytotoxic T cells in vitro, it is important to determine the origins during postnatal development of these cells. Class II disparate, semiallogeneic haematopoietic cells were injected into newborn A.TH and A.TL mice. Periodically thereafter (1 to 60 days post-injection, but prior to challenge with a tolerogen-bearing skin graft), thymocytes and splenocytes from these mice were examined in vitro for tolerogen-specific reactivity in mixed lymphocyte reactions during which proliferation and IL-2 and IL-4 production were assayed. Within 24 hours of neonatal injection, the thymus and spleens of injected mice were profoundly depleted of tolerogen-responsive T cells. However, there was no commensurate loss of I-E-related Vβ5+ cells in the thymus of A.TH mice that received neonatal inoculations of I-E-bearing A.TL cells. During the ensuing weeks, tolerogenresponsive proliferative and IL-4-secreting T cells were detected in thymus and spleen. However, not until after the mice were more than 60 days of age were tolerogen-responsive cells able to secrete IL-2. Since physical clonal deletion of tolerogen-related Vβ5+ cells is a characteristic of neither neonatal nor adult A.TH and A.TL mice that received injections of semiallogeneic cells at birth, and since tolerogenresponsive IL 4 producing cells exist in adult mice that have permanently accepted (A.TH x A.TL)F1 skin grafts, our results imply that the tolerogen-responsive T cells detected in adult tolerant mice are descendants of the novel IL-4-producing T cells that arise in the thymus almost immediately after the tolerance conferring inoculum of semiallogeneic cells. The possible mechanisms responsible for generation of IL-4-producing, tolerogen-responsive T cells and the role of these cells in maintenance of tolerance of class II alloantigens are discussed.
Hydrology and water quality in two mountain basins of the northeastern US: Assessing baseline conditions and effects of ski area development

Mountain regions throughout the world face intense development pressures associated with recreational and tourism uses. Despite these pressures, much of the research on bio-geophysical impacts of humans in mountain regions has focused on the effects of natural resource extraction. This paper describes findings from the first 3 years of a study examining high elevation watershed processes in a region undergoing alpine resort development. Our study is designed as a paired-watershed experiment. The Ranch Brook watershed (9·6 km2) is a relatively pristine, forested watershed and serves as the undeveloped ‘control’ basin. West Branch (11·7 km2) encompasses an existing alpine ski resort, with approximately 17% of the basin occupied by ski trails and impervious surfaces, and an additional 7% slated for clearing and development. Here, we report results for water years 2001–2003 of streamflow and water quality dynamics for these watersheds. Precipitation increases significantly with elevation in the watersheds, and winter precipitation represents 36–46% of annual precipitation. Artificial snowmaking from water within West Branch watershed currently augments annual precipitation by only 3–4%. Water yield in the developed basin exceeded that in the control by 18–36%. Suspended sediment yield was more than two and a half times greater and fluxes of all major solutes were higher in the developed basin. Our study is the first to document the effects of existing ski area development on hydrology and water quality in the northeastern US and will serve as an important baseline for evaluating the effects of planned resort expansion activities in this area. Published in 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Study of Hydrogen Atom Adsorption on Gallium Arsenide (100) by Multiple Internal Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy

We have studied the adsorption of hydrogen atoms on GaAs (100) by multiple internal reflection infrared spectroscopy. The crystal was etched in 1:1:10 H3PO4/H2O2-/H2O solution and in 1:1 HCI/H2O solution, then annealed to 580°C in the vacuum chamber. Hydrogen adsorption was carried out at −90 and 45°C. At both temperatures, a monolayer forms giving rise to infrared bands for arsenic hydride and gallium hydride at 2105 and 1860 cm−1, respectively. The arsenic hydride vibration is polarized parallel to the surface, whereas the gallium hydride vibration is polarized normal to the surface. By monitoring the changes in the intensity of the infrared absorption bands with time during exposure to H atoms and during heating, the kinetics of hydrogen adsorption and desorption can be measured. At t`9°C, the H atom sticking probability follows the Langmuir model, $$S/{S_ \circ } = (1 - {\theta _H})$$ . Upon heating the crystal, the arsenic hydride rapidly decomposes near 120°C, while the gallium hydride slowly decomposes between 150 and 400°C.
Polychromatic Midas cichlids respond to dummy opponents: color, contrast and context

Dummies allow the analysis of the effects of striking visual traits free of the confounding variation and interaction seen in live stimuli. In the Midas cichlid ('Cichlasoma' citrinellum), gold morphs (G) dominate normal (N) ones, apparently because an all-gold fish is a 'supernormal releaser' of fear. Although in other fish a dummy that looks like a territory holder or a dominant individual usually evokes the most aggressive response, we wondered whether the gold color was special and would depress aggressiveness. If so, when shown four differently colored passive dummies, gold ones would be approached and attacked least. The other three colors, all naturally occurring, were gray, white and black. Based on earlier, indirect evidence, we predicted that the N and G subjects would not differ in their responses, nor would males and females. We found that gold dummies were attacked at the highest rate, not the lowest, but all dummies were approached about equally. G and N subjects did not differ, nor did males and females based on attack rates. Females, however, spent more time close to the dummies than did males, possibly prospecting for a mate. To 'calibrate' the responses, we then presented to male subjects dummies colored gold, gray, and two novel colors, green and blue. The dummies were attacked from most to least in that order. The novel colors produced greater differences in responses than did colors normally found in the Midas cichlid. Other tests using dummies altered the position of the gold patch that is normally found on the throat, eye color, eye position, proportion of body colored gold, and species-typical markings; a patch of gold covering just the face was particularly evocative. The response to G may depend on whether the encounter is symmetrical or asymmetrical. Gold and gray dummies that threatened back were alternated with passive ones of the same color. Reactive gold and gray dummies were attacked at the highest rates and about equally; they were approached less than were the passive dummies, however. The results of testing with dummies can produce contrary results depending on whether the dummy is reactive or passive, and on the color of the background.
Program synthesis as a tool for teaching programming

An introductory programming course is described the content and format of which are based on the use of a program synthesizer. The synthesizer is seen as a useful and effective tool for students and teachers alike, particularly in a course with a problem-solving orientation. Common reservations about the use of such a tool in an introductory course are discussed in light of our experiences over the past two years.
Stochastic Optimal Controller Design for Uncertain Nonlinear Networked Control System via Neuro Dynamic Programming

The stochastic optimal controller design for the nonlinear networked control system (NNCS) with uncertain system dynamics is a challenging problem due to the presence of both system nonlinearities and communication network imperfections, such as random delays and packet losses, which are not unknown a priori. In the recent literature, neuro dynamic programming (NDP) techniques, based on value and policy iterations, have been widely reported to solve the optimal control of general affine nonlinear systems. However, for realtime control, value and policy iterations-based methodology are not suitable and time-based NDP techniques are preferred. In addition, output feedback-based controller designs are preferred for implementation. Therefore, in this paper, a novel NNCS representation incorporating the system uncertainties and network imperfections is introduced first by using input and output measurements for facilitating output feedback. Then, an online neural network (NN) identifier is introduced to estimate the control coefficient matrix, which is subsequently utilized for the controller design. Subsequently, the critic and action NNs are employed along with the NN identifier to determine the forward-in-time, time-based stochastic optimal control of NNCS without using value and policy iterations. Here, the value function and control inputs are updated once a sampling instant. By using novel NN weight update laws, Lyapunov theory is used to show that all the closed-loop signals and NN weights are uniformly ultimately bounded in the mean while the approximated control input converges close to its target value with time. Simulation results are included to show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Constituency Attentiveness in the House: 1977-1982

This paper examines the constituency-oriented behavior of House incumbents using both public-record and interview data from the late 1970s and early 1980s. It evaluates three broad theoretical perspectives: the rational, which sees constituency attentiveness as the result of electoral threat; the institutional, which holds that the House itself is a powerful molder of behavior; and the sociological, which sees behavior of incumbents as a function of social forces outside the institution. Modes of analysis include: (1) a panel of members, (2) a panel of districts in which the entry of new incumbents can be used to detect cohort effects, and (3) a cross-section to estimate the effects of exogenous variables which do not vary across the span of our panel. All three theoretical perspectives receive considerable support.
Undergraduate research as a retention tool

The Minority Engineering Apprenticeship Program (MEAP) was designed with the goal of retaining underrepresented minority engineering students, with the ultimate goal of inspiring these students to pursue a graduate degree in engineering. The program matches students and faculty based on major, and/or interest. As part of the College of Engineering's Minority Engineering Program, MEAP is viewed as a vital tool for helping students. The paper discusses the goals of the program.
Mapping the Cingulate Cortex in Response Selection and Monitoring

Many cognitive tasks have activated areas of the cingulate cortex. These include error detection, divided attention, conflict, and word generation tasks. However, the exact area of the cingulate found to be active has differed. This could be due to difference in subjects, laboratories, data analysis, or task conditions. The current study uses two very different tasks known to activate the cingulate and compares data from the same subjects and same trials to see whether there are temporal and spatial distinctions in cingulate activations. The tasks chosen were generation of the use of a noun and feedback that an error was made in the time window required for generation. High-density electrical recording was used to trace the time course of cingulate activation in the difference waves between correct and error feedback and between generate and repeat. Both tasks produced activity that is consistent with cingulate activation. However, the two tasks produced activity in different areas. These data are consistent with the idea that differences in areas of the cingulate activated differ between cognitive tasks and are not merely due to subject and laboratory differences.
Medicaid provisions and the US mental health industry composition.

AbstractBackground: Medicaid is the largest payer for mental health (MH) services.Aims: This study examines associations between Medicaid provisions and the MH industry composition.Methods: Medicaid data derived from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. MH facility gross payroll and occupational employment data derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. State fixed-effects regression models are performed to examine associations.Results: In the 1999–2009 period, per-capita gross payroll gains are largest for residential MH and substance abuse (SA) facilities and MH practitioner offices, followed by MH clinics and physician offices. Likewise, occupational employment gains per 100 000 people are largest for MH and SA social workers and MH counselors, followed by psychiatrists and psychologists. The Medicaid beneficiary rate is related with gross payroll gains at residential MH and SA facilities (p < 0.001) and MH clinics (p < 0.001), and with employment gains for MH and SA social workers (p < 0....
Peacekeeping lessons learned: An Irish perspective

(1997). Peacekeeping lessons learned: An Irish perspective. International Peacekeeping: Vol. 4, No. 3, pp. 94-103.
Forms and role of cluster initiatives in fostering innovation in post-industrial regions: a comparative study of environmental technologies clusters in the British West Midlands and the Spanish Basque Country

The paper compares approaches to cluster development initiatives in post-industrial regions with emphasis on their role in regional development through innovative and competitive enterprises. The study focuses on two environmental technologies clusters: Environmental Technologies Cluster in the British West Midlands and ACLIMA cluster in the Spanish Basque Country. The study compares clusters’ heterogeneity, goals and priorities, financing schemes, management structure, character of private-public partnerships, challenges, and collaboration networks at regional, national and international level. Also, an emphasis is given to how clusters enhance the level of innovation and what project types are promoted and realised by respective regions in the field of environmental industry. The study concludes with observations and recommendations on cluster policy design to policymakers and the private sector in regions facing similar economic challenges. The study is based on desk research and interviews with policy makers and cluster managers in the analysed regions.
Biomorphometric analysis of human prostatic carcinoma by using three-dimensional computer models.

Abstract Advances in the detection of carcinoma of the prostate during the last 15 years have accounted for a sharp increase and then an abrupt decrease in the incidence of the disease. A more recent decline in its mortality rates has been variously interpreted as either the success of early detection and improved treatment or lead-time bias. The recently reported Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial had an overall detection rate that approached the 30%-40% prevalence rates reported in autopsy series in which men died of other causes. However, the prognostic information that can be obtained from prostate cancer found on biopsy is limited. Three-dimensional computer modeling is one technique that allows multiple studies on “immortal” prostates to test methods of biopsy sampling accuracy and to assist in the determination of the disease’s severity. Computer modeling can assess detection rates and assesses tumor multifocality and heterogeneity. It can provide a more accurate representation of tumor volume, aiding in therapeutic decision making, and can assess sampling errors of various biopsy methods. It has been shown to be superior to wire-frame technique by immortalizing the original shape and dimensions of the surgically excised prostate gland. Moreover, our 3-dimensional computer modeling system improves upon other systems: It is more than a simple extension of the planimetric technique, and it is able to demarcate clearly the boundaries of Gleason grades just 1 grade apart.
Does Preparedness Planning Improve Attitudes and Completion of Advance Directives in Patients With Advanced Heart Failure

CORE 2. EPIDEMIOLOGY AND PREVENTION OF CV DISEASE: PHYSIOLOGY, PHARMACOLOGY AND LIFESTYLE SESSION TITLE: PSYCHOSOCIAL ISSUES AND END OF LIFE IN HEART DISEASE Abstract 9307: Does Preparedness Planning Improve Attitudes and Completion of Advance Directives in Patients with Symptomatic Heart Failure? Marjam Motie, Lorraine S Evangelista, Dawn Lombardo, Jennifer Ballard-Hernandez, Shaista Malik and Solomon Liao Publlshed: November 20, 2012
Experimental procedures to mitigate electron beam induced artifacts during in situ fluid imaging of nanomaterials

Scanning transmission electron microscopy of various fluid and hydrated nanomaterial samples has revealed multiple imaging artifacts and electron beam–fluid interactions. These phenomena include growth of crystals on the fluid stage windows, repulsion of particles from the irradiated area, bubble formation, and the loss of atomic information during prolonged imaging of individual nanoparticles. Here we provide a comprehensive review of these fluid stage artifacts, and we present new experimental evidence that sheds light on their origins in terms of experimental apparatus issues and indirect electron beam sample interactions with the fluid layer. A key finding is that many artifacts are a result of indirect electron beam interactions, such as production of reactive radicals in the water by radiolysis, and the associated crystal growth. The results presented here will provide a methodology for minimizing fluid stage imaging artifacts and acquiring quantitative in situ observations of nanomaterial behavior in a liquid environment.
Utilizing the web services for secured mobile computing applications

We have implemented secured Web applications using remote Web services on mobile devices with .NET technologies. In this paper, we will describe the Web applications that use mobile devices to deploy RSA-secured data using remote Web services. This application can be embedded into any business and industrial applications that need to communicate securely using mobile devices as long as the mobile device has a wireless connection (either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth). Thus, it can be used in broad mobile computing applications using wireless data communication that require mobile security.
The Configurational Space of Rocksalt‐Type Oxides for High‐Capacity Lithium Battery Electrodes

A unifying theory is presented to explain the lithium exchange capacity of rocksalt-like structures with any degree of cation ordering, and how lithium percolation properties can be used as a guideline for the development of novel high-capacity electrode materials is demonstrated. The lithium percolation properties of the three most common lithium metal oxide phases, the layered α-NaFeO2 structure, the spinel-like LT-LiCoO2 structure, and the γ-LiFeO2 structure, are demonstrated and a strong dependence of the percolation thresholds on the cation ordering and the lithium content is observed. The poor performance of γ-LiFeO2-type structures is explained by their lack of percolation of good Li migration channels. The spinel-like structure exhibits excellent percolation properties that are robust with respect to off-stoichiometry and some amount of cation disorder. The layered structure is unique, as it possesses two different types of lithium diffusion channels, one of which is, however, strongly dependent on the lattice parameters, and therefore very sensitive to disorder. In general it is found that a critical Li-excess concentration exists at which Li percolation occurs, although the amount of Li excess needed depends on the partial cation ordering. In fully cation-disordered materials, macroscopic lithium diffusion is enabled by ≈10% excess lithium.
Low-order model identification of MIMO systems from noisy and incomplete data

In this paper, we provide preliminary results aimed at solving the following problem: Given a priori information on Multi-Input/Multi-Output (MIMO) plant, namely constraints on the pole location, and scattered input/output data, find the lowest order model that is compatible with both the a priori assumptions and the collected data. By combining concepts from signal sparsification and subspace identification, algorithms are developed that can determine a low order model from data that is both corrupted by measurement noise and has missing measurements. Effectiveness of the proposed approach is shown by an academic example.
Implementation and evaluation of activities to foster a sense of community among pharmacy students

Abstract Introduction The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of a series of team-based instructional activities on students' sense of community for pharmacy students assigned to the main and distance program sites. Materials and methods In conjunction with a teaching objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) conducted at the program's distance site, several team-based sense of community activities were completed. The classroom and school community inventory (CSCI) was adapted and administered to students prior to and following all learning activities to measure course and program sense of community. Results Pre- and post-surveys were completed by 116 students. Course and program sense of community significantly increased among students at the distance site ( p = 0.007 and p = 0.008, respectively). No significant changes were found for students assigned to the main site. Conclusion For programs with multiple sites, activities designed to enhance sense of community and conducted at the distance site are effective for students assigned to the distance site.
Vibrio fischeri exhibit the growth advantage in stationary-phase phenotype

Vibrio fischeri are bioluminescent marine bacteria that can be isolated from their symbiotic animal partners or from ocean water. A V. fischeri population increases exponentially inside the light organ of the Hawaiian bobtail squid (Euprymna scolopes) while the host is quiescent during the day. This bacterial light organ population reaches stationary phase and then remains high during the night, when the squid use bacterial bioluminescence as a counter-predation strategy. At dawn, host squid release 90%-95% of the light organ contents into the ocean water prior to burying in the sand for the day. As the squid sleeps, the cycle of bacterial population growth in the light organ begins again. These V. fischeri cells that are vented into the ocean must persist under typical marine low nutrient conditions until they encounter another opportunity to colonize a host. We hypothesized that because V. fischeri regularly encounter cycles of feast and famine in nature, they would exhibit the growth advantage in stationary phase (GASP) phenotype. We found that older V. fischeri cells exhibit a Class 2 GASP response in which old cells increase dramatically in frequency while the population of young V. fischeri cells remains almost constant during co-incubation.
Percutaneous Screw Fixation of Lateral Condylar Humeral Fractures

Lateral condylar humeral fractures are the second most common elbow injury in children and commonly occur between the ages of 5 and 10 years. There are several systems for classification of this fracture, including those of Milch (fracture line location) and Jakob et al. (displacement). Although nonoperative management is indicated for nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures (<2 mm), operative fixation is indicated for greater displacement. Traditionally, open reduction and internal fixation has been the method used to ensure adequate reduction. However, closed reduction and internal fixation techniques for displaced fractures have been receiving increasing attention, with recent studies showing promising results. Several constructs (multiple smooth pins, a single lag screw, and threaded pins) for closed reduction and internal fixation have been described. Smooth-pin fixation has the advantage of a small diameter and easy removal, whereas threaded pins combine a small diameter with compressive properties. Compression of these small, articular fractures is important, and the optimal mode of fixation for maintaining fracture reduction is debated. Fixation with a partially threaded lag screw works by achieving metaphyseal compression, preventing loss of reduction of the distal fragment. In our experience, the compressive abilities of smooth and threaded pins are limited in the soft osteocartilaginous lateral condyle. Partially threaded lag screw fixation is indicated for pediatric patients with a substantially displaced (Jakob type-II or III) lateral condylar fracture. The major steps of the procedure are (1) preoperative planning with anteroposterior, lateral, and oblique radiographs; (2) supine positioning of the patient with the shoulder in abduction; (3) closed reduction with manual pressure; (4) guide-pin insertion through the lateral column of the distal part of the humerus; and (5) exchange of the guide pin with a lag screw. Postoperatively, the elbow is immobilized with a bivalved long-arm fiberglass cast or a posterior splint. The cast or splint is removed after interval healing is demonstrated on radiographs, and the lag screw is removed after complete fracture union is demonstrated. Complications are rare, and patients are expected to have decreased infection and open-reduction rates compared those treated with pin fixation.
Left ventricular aneurysmectomy: Factors influencing postoperative results

One hundred consecutive patients who underwent resection of aneurysms of the left ventricle were reviewed. Eighty-four of these patients had resection or plication of an aneurysm of the anterior left ventricular wall either alone or in combination with coronary artery bypass grafting. In 27 patients who had little or no congestive heart failure, the primary indication for operation was disabling angina pectoris. In them the early mortality was 4% and late mortality, 4%. In nine other patients the primary indication for operation was life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. In this group the early mortality was 56% and late mortality, 0%. Severe congestive heart failure was the primary indication for aneurysmectomy in 48 patients. In these patients the early mortality was 21% and late mortality, 34%. When the primary indication for operation was severe congestive heart failure, overall survival and postoperative results were best in patients in whom the nonaneurysmal left ventricle had good function preoperatively and was supplied by coronary arteries either unobstructed or favorable for bypass grafting; results were poorest in those patients with three-vessel coronary artery disease who had impaired motion of the lateral left ventricular wall and distal lateral wall vessels that were unfavorable for bypass grafting. It is concluded that patients with left ventricular aneurysms form a heterogeneous group in which the prognosis varies markedly. The probability of a good postoperative result can be predicted by careful preoperative analysis of a patient's symptoms, ventricular function, and coronary artery anatomy.